Seemor
El ColmaoB+Worth Trying
2328 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90006
· Cuban restaurant, Caribbean restaurant, Latin American restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (476 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Old-school Cuban spot serving hearty classics with generous portions and friendly, no-frills service; go for comfort staples and value lunch plates, but expect mixed experiences and very simple ambiance.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
El Colmao delivers above-average food quality with hearty Cuban classics and generous portions that resonate with multi-generational regulars, but inconsistent execution—occasional bland or greasy plates—prevents a higher grade. Warm, accommodating service and fair pricing are genuine strengths, though the humble, no-frills setting and sketchy street scene limit broader appeal. This is authentic neighborhood Cuban comfort, not destination dining.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels humble and timeless, a true hole-in-the-wall where multi‑generation regulars greet staff by name. One diner summed it up: "Feels like abuela cooked this, hearty and warm." However, expect a no-frills setting and a street scene that some call sketchy. The cooking leans classic Cuban comfort over flash: ropa vieja, palomilla, picadillo, oxtail, fried yucca, tostones, and big scoops of rice and beans. Portions are generous, prices friendly, and service reads as warm and accommodating, though a few reports cite bland seasoning or greasy fries on off days. Families do well here: kids can lean on rice and beans, breaded steaks or chicken, and plantains. There is a vegetarian combination on the menu, but otherwise options skew meaty and simple; no kids menu noted, just approachable plates and big portions.
At a Glance
- Hearty Cuban classics with generous portions and fair prices
- Strong local following with decades of repeat customers
- Occasional bland or greasy plates reported by some diners
- Very simple ambiance and a street scene some find rough
- Friendly service and accommodating for catering
What Sets It Apart
- multi-generation regular base
- Sunday karaoke
- budget-friendly Cuban lunch plates
What People Love
- Nostalgic, old-school flavors
- Huge portions of rice and beans
- Crispy tostones and fried yucca when fresh
- Warm, familiar service from a consistent team
- Budget-friendly lunch specials
Points of Concern
- Some diners report inconsistent seasoning or greasy fried sides
- Ambiance is dated and very simple
- A few negative service interactions with attitude or rough plate delivery
- Area can feel sketchy to some visitors
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$20-$28 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair a $10-$12 main with Caldo Gallego on soup days for value
- Vegetarians: order the Combinación Vegetariana and add extra plantains
Perfect For
- Craving classic Cuban comfort food
- Casual family dinners on a budget
- Weekday lunch with hearty portions
- Takeout or catering for groups
Location Insights
Area: Urban, working-class corridor with small businesses and cultural eateries; practical over polished.
Safety: Some reviewers note a sketchy feel; typical city street vibe with daytime foot traffic.
Nearby: Pico-Union near Downtown LA; close to offices, apartments, and auto/retail services.
KoreatownKoreatown is a vibrant, densely populated neighborhood known for its bustling nightlife, extensive dining scene, and cultural diversity. The area features a wide range of restaurants, from traditional Korean BBQ to Latin American and other international cuisines, attracting food enthusiasts and locals alike. It is a lively urban environment with a mix of affordable and trendy dining options.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00–20:00
Tuesday10:00–17:00
Wednesday10:00–20:00
Thursday10:00–20:00
Friday10:00–20:00
Saturday10:00–20:00
Sunday10:00–20:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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